HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 Review

First Thoughts on the HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100

For years, I’ve trusted revolvers in various roles, from backup while guiding backcountry hunts to primary home defense. While their reliability is legendary, reloading has always been their Achilles’ heel. The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 promises to alleviate that, offering a faster, more efficient way to reload my trusty GP100 and S&W Model 686.

I was looking for an affordable speedloader to cut down reload times during practice. I’ve seen guys fumble with loose rounds, and I’ve done it myself more times than I care to admit. This HKS speedloader was priced attractively at $9.99, making it an easy choice to try out.

Out of the box, the HKS Speedloader feels lightweight, almost deceptively so, due to its plastic construction. The smooth finish is functional, if not particularly inspiring, and the twist-knob design appears straightforward. Comparing it to pricier, machined aluminum speedloaders from Safariland and 5 Star Firearms, the difference in heft and perceived durability is noticeable. Still, for the price, it seemed like a reasonable trade-off, and I was eager to test its functionality.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It felt a little “plasticky,” but the design was simple, and the price was right. Could it truly speed up my reloads without sacrificing reliability? Only testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the HKS Speedloader was at my local outdoor range, nestled in the foothills of the Rockies. I tested it with both my Ruger GP100 (4.2-inch barrel) and my S&W Model 686 (6-inch barrel), using a mix of .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition.

The performance was a mixed bag initially. The speedloader worked reasonably well, but required a bit of practice to get the hang of the twist-lock mechanism. The rounds dropped relatively freely into the chambers once the knob was disengaged, but the lock-up felt slightly stiff, mirroring some user feedback I’d seen online.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions spanning a few months, the HKS Speedloader has become a staple in my range bag. It has held up surprisingly well, considering its plastic construction. There are no visible cracks or signs of significant wear, even after being tossed around with my other gear.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove powder residue. While it doesn’t offer the bombproof feel of higher-end metal speedloaders, it has proven reliable enough for range use and practice. Compared to loading individual rounds, the HKS Speedloader significantly speeds up the reloading process, allowing for more efficient practice sessions.

Breaking Down the Features of HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100

Specifications

The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 is designed for quick and efficient reloading of 6-round revolvers chambered in .38 Special and .357 Magnum. Its key specifications include a smooth finish and a 6-round capacity. The model number is 586A and it belongs to HKS’s A Series.

These specifications are crucial for providing a reliable and practical speedloading solution. The 6-round capacity matches the standard cylinder capacity of many popular revolvers, while the smooth finish aids in easy handling and deployment.

Performance & Functionality

The HKS Speedloader performs its primary function – reloading revolvers – adequately, but not flawlessly. It holds six rounds securely and releases them into the cylinder with a twist of the knob. The speedloader definitely speeds up the reloading process, especially compared to loading rounds individually.

However, the stiffness of the locking mechanism and the plastic construction are weaknesses. While functional, the overall experience lacks the smoothness and robustness of more expensive alternatives. Ultimately, it meets expectations for its price point but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The HKS Speedloader features a simple, functional design. The plastic construction makes it lightweight, but it also feels less durable than metal options. The ergonomics are acceptable; the speedloader is easy to grip and manipulate.

However, the twist-knob design might require some practice to master. There isn’t much of a learning curve, but a smoother, more refined mechanism would improve the user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic construction raises some concerns about long-term durability. While my testing hasn’t revealed any immediate issues, it’s unlikely to withstand the same abuse as a metal speedloader. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down is usually sufficient.

However, the plastic material might be susceptible to cracking or degradation over time, especially with exposure to solvents or extreme temperatures. So far, I haven’t had this problem, but it is something to consider.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HKS Speedloader comes as a standalone product with no included accessories. There are no specific customization options available for the speedloader itself. However, it is compatible with a variety of revolver models, including S&W and Ruger GP100 revolvers.

HKS offers various speedloader pouches and carriers that can be used to conveniently carry and access the speedloader on a belt or vest. These pouches are a worthwhile addition for anyone who intends to use the speedloader for practical shooting or self-defense purposes.

Pros and Cons of HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100